When you need topsoil vs mulch
Topsoil builds or restores soil profile — new sod, seeding, raised beds, or filling erosion ruts. Mulch protects the surface. Many projects use both: 6–12 inches of topsoil in a raised bed, then 2–3 inches of mulch on planting beds elsewhere.
Select “topsoil” in project settings so bag equivalents match typical 1 cu ft or 40 lb bag labeling at retailers.
Depth guidelines
New lawn from seed or sod: 4–6 inches of quality topsoil worked into subgrade. Minor leveling: 1–2 inches spread and rake. Raised beds: 8–12 inches minimum for vegetables, more for root crops.
Volume adds up fast — a 4 ft × 8 ft raised bed at 10 inches deep needs about 1 cubic yard.
- Lawn prep: 4–6 inches tilled in
- Spot leveling: 1–2 inches
- Raised bed 4×8 at 10": ~1 cu yd
- Planter mix: often sold by cu ft, not yard
Screened topsoil and delivery
“Screened” topsoil has rocks and debris removed — worth the premium for lawns and beds. Unscreened fill is cheaper for large hole filling where quality matters less.
Topsoil is heavy (about 2,000 lbs per yard when damp). Compare delivered yard price vs bagged for projects under 1 yard.